JT Moore, 79, of Peoria, Illinois, died at 9:33 a.m. on Monday, March 6, 2023 at ProMedica Skilled Nursing in Galesburg.
He was born to Anderson Thomas and Blanche Smith on March 25, 1943 in Lexington, Mississippi, and raised by Thornton and Blanche (Smith) Moore. After graduating from high school, JT enlisted in the US Army and proudly served his country from 1967 to 1969. He later owned and operated several businesses throughout his life.
JT is survived by two sons, Jeff Moore of Peoria, and Vernon Smith of Broadview, Illinois; nine grandchildren: Skyler, Jaylon, Khylie, Jasmine, Jaymon, Jada, Jordon, Jacobie, and Vernon Lamont; and five step-great-grandchildren. Also surviving are four sisters: Minnie Smith-Buckingham of Alton, Illinois, Nettie Banks of Peoria, Kortrith Harris of Peoria, and Quinsola Bailey of Peoria; one brother, John Thomas of Chicago, Illinois; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; and many siblings.
JT was a past member of St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church in Peoria, as well as the Knights of Pythias. He was a very well-known man in Peoria and was nicknamed “Top Cat”. JT was a jack of all trades and enjoyed going to flea markets and tinkering with many different things. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.
Cremation has been accorded. A memorial service will be held at a later date, with burial to take place at Parkview Cemetery in Peoria. Memorials may be made to the family. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.
